Apparatus for conveying and filling capsules

ABSTRACT

This disclosure is directed to an apparatus for conveying and handling a capsule of the type having a cap portion and body portion interfitted to one another. The apparatus comprises essentially of a conveyor preferrably in the form of an endless flexible chain having connected thereto relatively movable complementary capsule holding means which are adapted to move into and out of alignment as the conveyor is moved in a predetermined path to effect sequentially the feeding, separation, filling, reassembly and finally ejection of the filled capsule therefrom. Thereafter the arrangement is such that the respective complementary capsule holding portions can be individually purged; and the cycle of operation repeated.

United States Patent v in] 3,601,954

[72] Inventor Theodore F. Aronson [56] References Cited [21] A I Nggnlggve, N.Y. UNITED STATES PATENTS [22] Filed Nov 15 1968 2,764,86310/1956 Kath 53/282 y [45] Patented Aug. 3], 1971 PrimaryExaminer-Theron E. Condon [73] Assignee Eli Lilly and Company AssistantExaminer-Robert L. Spruill Indianapolis, Ind. Attorney-Irving SeidmanABSTRACT: This disclosure is directed to an apparatus for conveying andhandling a capsule of the type having a cap portion and body portioninterfitted to one another. The apparatus comprises essentially of aconveyor preferrably in the form of an endless flexible chain havingconnected thereto relatively movable complementary capsule holding meanswhich are adapted to move into and out of alignment as the [S4]APPARATUS FOR CONVEYING AND FILLING CAPSULES 21 Clalms, 12 Drawing Figs.

[52] [1.8. CI 53/282, conveyor is moved in a predetermined path toeffect sequen- 198/131 tially the feeding, separation, filling,reassembly and finally [Sll lnLCl B65h 1/00, ejection of the filledcapsule therefrom. Thereafter the ar- B65h 7/28 rangement is such thatthe respective complementary capsule I50] Field of Search 53/281,holding portions can be individually purged; and the cycle of 282;198/131, 145, 148; 29/200 A, 208 B operation repeated.

PATENTEU M831 I97! 3,601]. 95d

SHEET 1 m 4 a w- INVENTOR.

771fODORE 7 A ma/wow Mil d m PATENTEU AUB3'I I9?! 3,501 95A sum 3 or 4FIG, 7 9

FIG. 8 FIG. 9

PATENTEI] AUB31 I971 350L954 sum w or d FIG. IO FIG. ll

APPATUS FOR CONVEYING AND WILLING CAPSULES PROBLEM IN THE ART Heretoforeconsiderable difficulty was encountered in the art of handling andfilling capsules of the type having interfitted cap and body portionsduring a filling operation. Generally the capsules had been fed at afeed station as an assembled and emptied unit onto a conveyor. As theConveyor advanced the capsules toward the filling station it wasrequired that the emptied capsule be operated upon to effect theseparation of the body portion form the cap portion so that the formermay be filled with a suitable material. Separation of the capsule wasperformed either manually or automatically by a relatively complicatedmechanism having intricately moving fingers. The removed capsule portionwas then carried on the conveyor in a semiloosened manner adjacent itsmating body portion as the latter was conveyed through a fillingstation.

Experience has evidenced that such procedure was unsatisfactory becausethe vibration and/or movement imparted to the conveyor frequentlyresulted in the cap portion being loosened or shaken free of theconveyor. When this occurred the dislodged capsule portion wouldinvariably jam the operating mechanism of the apparatus.

Reassembly of the respective capsule portion upon the filling thereofwas again required to be either manually performed, or automaticallyperformed by relatively complicated mechanism similar to that needed toautomatically effect removal of the cap portion from the body portion ofthe capsule; but programmed to operate in the reverse order.Consequently such operations when performed manually resulted in atedious, time-consuming operation which is inconsistent with anautomatic line. When performed automatically the equipment necessary wascomplicated, costly and generally unsatisfactory.

OBJECTS An object of this invention is to provide a conveyor having aplurality of capsule receiving means spaced along the conveyor in whichthe capsule receiving means includes complementary relatively movablefirst and second portions which are adapted to be moved into and out ofalignment in a predetermined sequence as the conveyor is moved along apredetermined path through a series of successive operating stations.

Another object is to provide a relatively simple and inexpensive meansfor conveying a capsule through a plurality of operating stations in amanner wherein the respective capsule portions are positively held inplace throughout the operating cycle.

Another object is to provide a relatively simple capsule handling andconveying means in which the capsule portions can be readily separated,filled, reassembled and ejected in a relatively simple, continuous,expedient and positive manner.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The foregoing objects, features and otheradvantages are attained by an apparatus in which a plurality of capsulesare successively conveyed through a series of operating stations in amanner in which the respective capsule portions are positively held inplace throughout the entire operating cycle of feeding, separating,filling, reassembly and ejection of the capsule. The apparatus comprisesan endless flexible conveyor means having connected thereto a pluralityof relatively movable complementary capsule holders. Preferably ofconnected chain links in which the adjacent links are pivotally securedby a sleeve pinhaving a bore extending therethrough for accommodatingthe body portion of a capsule. Pivotally connected to the chain are aseries of arms which have connected to the free end thereof acomplementary capsule holder. The arrangement is such that thecomplementary capsule holder pivots into and out of alignment with thebore of the next adjacent sleeve pin, and a means is provided foreffecting relative movement of the complementary capsule holder into andout of alignment relative to its corresponding sleeve pin in apredetermined sequence.

ln operation the respective complementary capsule holders are disposedin alignment as the conveyor chain passes through a station in whichassembled capsules are successively fed into each such aligned capsuleholder. The movable complementary capsule holder is formed so that thecap portion of the capsule received therein is retained as the bodyportion of the capsule extends into the bore of the correspondingaligned sleeve pin ofthe chain.

The respective aligned portions of the succeeding capsule receivers aredirected over a zone of reduced pressure to subject the body portion ofthe capsule to a negative pressure which causes it to be pulled orseparated from the retained cap portion in the upper capsule holderportion. Upon separation, the body portion of the capsule is sealedwithin the sleeve pin and the upper capsule holder in which the capportion is retained is pivoted into and out of alignment position so asto expose the open end of the body portion of the capsule retained inthe sleeve pin as the conveyor is moved through the filling station. Asthe respective capsule holder carrying the body of the capsules carriedtherein are successively filled.

Upon passing through the filling station the complementary capsuleholder retaining the cap portion of the capsule is again moved intoalignment with the sleeve pin containing the filled capsule body portionwhereupon a cooperatively associated cam actuated pin or ejector isactuated to bear on the aligned capsule portions within the respectivecomplementary capsule holder to effect reassembly and ejection of thefilled capsule accordingly.

Upon ejection of the capsule, the respective capsule holders are againmoved to a misaligned position at which time the respective capsuleholders are operated upon by cam actuated ejectors to purge therespective capsule holders of any defective capsule portions which maybecome jammed or stuck therein. Thereafter the cycle is repeated as theconveyor moves in an endless path.

A feature of this invention resides in the provision of a singleconveyor having relatively movable capsule holding portions carriedthereon for transporting the respective capsule portions through aseries of operating stations in which the respective movable capsuleholding portions are moved into and out of alignment in a predeterminedorder so as to effect feeding, separation, filling and ejection in anexpedient, simple and positive manner.

Another feature of this invention resides in the provision of an endlessflexible conveyor having a capsule holder connected thereto adapted forreceiving a [body portion of a capsule and a complementary hingedlyconnected cap holding portion adapted to swing into and out of alignmentwith the respective body holder capsule portion carried by the conveyor.

Another feature of this invention resides in the provision whereinseparation of the capsule is effected in situs within the capsuleholding means carried by the conveyor by subjecting the capsule to aforce of negative pressure.

Another feature of this invention resides in the provision of arelatively simple and inexpensive conveyor wherein a plurality ofcapsules are continuously conveyed in a relatively rapid anduninterrupted manner through a plurality of successive operatingstations to effect the operations of feeding,

separations, filling, reassembly, ejection and purging.

Other features and advantages will become more readily apparent whenconsidered in view of the drawings and specifications in which:

FIG. l is a plan layout of a capsule conveyor illustrating an embodimentof the invention.

FIG. 2 is an enlarged sectional view "taken along line 2-2 on lFIG. ll.

FIG. 3 is a sectional end view taken along line 3 3 on FIG. 1illustrating the support of the cam track.

FIG. 4 is a detailed side sectional view taken along line 4-4 on FIG. 1.I

FIG. 5 is a detailed side sectional view taken along line 55 on FIG. 1.

FIG. 6 is a detailed side sectional view taken along line 6-6 on FIG. 1.

FIG. 7 is a detailed side sectional view taken along line 7 7 on FIG. 1.

FIG. 8 is a detailed side sectional view taken along line 8--8 on FIG.1.

FIG. 9 is a detailed sectional view taken along line 99 on FIG. 1.

FIG. 10 is a detailed sectional view taken along line 10-10 on FIG].

FIG. 11 is a sectional view taken along line 11ll on FIG. 1.

FIG. 12 is a detailed sectional view of a type capsule.

Referring to the drawings, FIG. 1 illustrates a planview of the conveyorportion of a capsule filling apparatus 21 by which a predeterminedamount of powdered material or other article of manufacture is placedwithin a capsule 22. Capsules 22 of the type on which the illustratedapparatus 21 is intended to operate comprises a cap portion 22A and acomplementary body portion 22B interfitted in the assembled position.See FIG. 11. The respective capsule portions 22A, 228 may besemispherical or semielliptical in shape. In the illustrated form agenerally elliptical-shaped capsule 22 is shown. Such capsules 22" whenused as a pill to encase therein a predetermined amount of medicinalpowder are generally made of a digestible material. However capsules ofthe type described may be formed of any suitable material, e.g. glass,plastic, metal or the like and may also be used to package otherarticles of manufacturers or commerce e.g. toys, novelties-of varioussorts, etc.

The illustrated form of the apparatus is directed to an arrangementwhereby capsules 22 may be readily filled with a predetermined amount ofpowdered material in a substantially continuous or uninterrupted manner.The filling apparatus 21 comprises generally of a supporting surface orframe 23 on which the component parts or operating stations aresupported.

The illustrated apparatus 21 is directed to a device by which aplurality of capsules 2, are successively conveyed through a series ofoperating stations in which an emptied capsule is first fed onto theconveyor, separated, then filled with a desired article of manufacture,and thereafter reassembled to confine the article of manufacturetherein. The filled and reassembled capsule is then ejected permittingthe cycle of operation to be continuously repeated.

The means by which the respective capsules are conveyed from station tostation comprises a conveyor 24 carrying a series of complementarycapsule holding means 25. The conveyor means 24 is illustrated as anendless flexible conveyor in the form of a chain which is guided in apredetermined path about a plurality of guide means in the form ofspaced toothed sprockets 26, 27, 28, 29, 30, and 31.

As shown the illustrated conveyor chain comprises a series of chainlinks 25A, 25B, of spaced link plates which are pivotally secured attheir adjacent ends by a hollow pin or sleeve 32. The respective pins orsleeves 26, securing the adjacent ends of links 25A, 25B, are fittedwith a bearing sleeve 33 which also defines a spacer between the opposedlink plates of the respective chain links 25A, 258.

As best seen in FIG. 2, the sleeve pin 32 is provided with a bore 34extending therethrough. Intermediate the length of the bore 34 there isprovided an internal shoulder 35 to define a seat or support for thebody portion 228 of a capsule 22 adapted to be received therein. Thelength of the bore 34 between the shoulder 35 and the upper end 34A isdimensioned slightly greater than the length of the body portion of thecapsule 22. The respective sleeve pins are illustrated as being held inposition by a flange 36 on one end thereon and by a retaining ring 37for securing the other end thereof.

Pivotally connected about the upper end of the respective sleeve pins 34is an arm 38. One end of the arm is offset, the offset end beingprovided with an opening 38A for receiving a bushing or collar 39 whichdefines a complementary capsule holder to accommodate the cap portion22A of the capsule. The bushing collar 39 is retained to arm 38 by abottom flange 39A formed on the collar 39 and a retaining ring 40.

As shown the bushing or collar 39 is provided with a bore 41 extendingtherethrough and it is provided with an internal shoulder 42. Theinternal shoulder 42 is proportioned so as to support or form a sect forthe cap portion 22A of a capsule adapted to be received therein whichthe internal diameter of the shoulder 42 is sized to permit the bodyportion of the capsule to extend therethrough. See FIG. 5.

In operation the arm 38 and the connected bushing 39, which defines thecap holder portion of the respective capsule receiving means 25, isarranged to pivot about its respective pivot into and out of alignmentwith the next adjacent or succeeding sleeve pin 34 in a predeterminedsequence.

In the illustrated embodiment the pivoting sequence of the arm 38 andconnected cap holder 39 is controlled by a cam track 43. The cam trackmay comprise a channel member 43A having formed in the undersurfacethereof a cam groove 43B adapted to receive the respective cap holder orbushing 39. The cam groove 43B of the cam track 43 is thus formed sothat portions thereof are disposed in alignment with the travel path ofthe sleeve pins 32 with other portions of the cam groove 43B disposedout of alignment with the travel path of the cam groove 43B. Brackets 44spaced along the cam track 43 support and maintain the track 43 inposition on the support 23.

Referring to FIG. 1 the conveyor chain 24 is guided in an endless pathabout a series of spaced toothed sprockets 26 to 31, each journaled toits respective shaft or pivot 26A, 27A, 28A, 29A, 30A and 31A. The teethof the respective sprockets are fon'ned with a root diameter sized tocomplement the diameter of the bearing or spacer 33 circumscribing thesleeve pin.

Cooperatively associated with sprocket 26 is a rectifier turret (notshown) which defines a capsule feed station FS. The capsule feed stationincludes a conventional capsule feed hopper for containing a supply ofcapsules 22 together with means for feeding the assembled but emptiedcapsules successively to the respective capsule holder means 25 carriedonthe conveyor chain. The capsule feed means comprises conventionalstructure, specific details of which are not necessary for anunderstanding of the present invention. Such capsule feed means operateto successively orient and feed the capsules to a feed tube 45 wherebythe capsules therein may be successively fed into the capsule holdingmeans on the moving conveyor. As best seen in FIG. 1, the pivotal capholder portion 38 is moved by the cam groove 43B into alignment with itscorresponding sleeve pin 32 as the conveyor rounds sprocket 26 which issynchronized to the operation of the capsule feed station or rectifier.

As best seen in FIG. 5, the respective capsules are fed body first intothe successive moving aligned capsule holding means 25 passing beneaththe feed tube 45 of the rectifier or feed station FS. As the capsule 22is received in the respective aligned capsule holder 25, the cap portion22A becomes seated on the intumed flange or shoulder 42 of the capbushing or holder 39 as the body portion 22A of the capsule extendsthrough the opening defined thereby and into the bore 34 of theassociated sleeve pin 32. In this position, as noted in FIG. 5 the bodyportion 228 of the capsule is spaced above the flange or seat 35 of thesleeve pin.

Spaced downstreamwise in the direction of the chain travel from the feedstation, there is located a vacuum chamber 46 having a slotted opening46A disposed contiguous to the bottom opening of the sleeve pins 32which are arranged to pass thereover. The arrangement is such that thebore 34 of the respective pins 32 are placed in communication with thevacuum chamber 46 as the conveyor passes thereover. The vacuum chamber46 in turn is connected to a source of negative pressure e.g. a vacuumpump 27 by a suitable conduit 49. Thus as the chain conveyor 20 passesover the slotted opening 46A of the vacuum chamber, the bore of thesleeve pins 32 and the capsule carried therein is subjected to the forceof negative pressure occasioned thereby, causing the body portion 228 ofthe capsule to be pulled away from the cap portion 22A retained by theshoulder 12 in bushing 39. In doing so, the capsule body becomesseparated and seated on the internal shoulder 33 of the associatedsleeve pin 32. See FIG. 6.

As the conveyor moves beyond the vacuum chamber 46 in the direction oftravel, the cam groove $318 of the cam track 43 gradually causes therespective cap holders 39 riding therein to be pivoted out of alignmentwith respect to its as sociated sleeve pin 32, containing the separatedbody portion 22B of the capsule. Thus as the conveyor chain 20 roundssprocket 27, the open upper end of the body 228 of the capsule isexposed to receive its contents.

A capsule filling station is cooperatively associated with sprocket 27which is synchronized'in movement therewith and it includes a powderhopper for supplying a powder supply to a powder trough 48. Anassociated pickup means 4l9 is operatively associated with the fillstation apparatus for placing a predetermined amount of material fromthe powder trough to the body 2218 of the capsule. Generally the powderpickup means 99 comprises a gun-type pickup, e.g. of the type disclosedin pending application Ser. No. 738,683 filed June 20, 1968 and now U.S.Pat. No. 3,489,055 Material Handling Method and Apparatus and Ser. No.626,083 filed Mar. 27, 1967 for Method and Apparatus for DispensingEqual Amounts of Powder Material" which is operatively connected to arotating turret synchronized to the operation of the turret sprocket 28.Accordingly as seen in FIG. 7, the pickup i9 is actuated so that apredetermined measure of powder material is disposed in each capsulebody moving thereunder. As seen in FIG. I, the cap holder is maintainedout of alignment relative to the sleeve pin 32 and capsule body 22Btherein as the conveyor is synchronized to the filling turret sprocket27.

As the conveyor chain moves beyond the turret filling sprocket 27, thecam track is shaped so as to bring or pivot the cap holder 39 and thecapsule 22A therein into axial alignment with its corresponding sleevepin 32 which now contains a capsule body 228 and its contents. A takeupsprocket 28 may be disposed downstream from turret sprocket 27 to takeup any slack in the chain.

With the capsule holder means 32 and 39 returned into axial alignment bythe cam track 23, the chain is guided about the capsule reassemblyturret sprocket 29. Operatively associated with the capsule reassemblyturret sprocket 29 is a closing and ejecting station CS. The closing andejecting means comprises a series of moving fingers movably mounted on arotating turret disposed above and below the turret sprocket 27 whichare adapted to rotate in synchronization therewith. The fingers arepreferably cam actuated so as to extend into and out of the respectivealigned capsule holder means 32 and 39. The arrangement is such that thefingers 50 of the upper turret (not shown) are progressively lowereduntil it bears on the cap 22A of the capsule carried on the associatedcap holder 39; as seen in lFIG. 8. The lower finger Sll in turn isprogressively raised under the influence of its cam to effect upwarddisplacement of the filler body portion 22B of the capsule toward thecap 22A to effect reassembly of the capsule to confine its contentstherein. See FIG. 9.

As the conveyor 20 continues to advance about sprocket 29, fromapproximately position 9-9 to position l 110, the lower finger 311 isprogressively raised under the influence of its actuating cam to aposition indicated in FIG. It] wherein the reassembled capsule isejected to a position above and free of the aligned capsule holder means32 and 39. As seen in FIG. lit, the pressure exerted by fingers 39 and39. As seen in FIG. lltl, the pressure exerted by fingers 39 and 51 issufficient to hold the assembled capsule 22 therebetween.

To remove or release the capsule from between holding fingers 59, fill,a jet of pressurized fluid, as for example, compressed air from a nozzleor jet 52 is directed against the capsule 22. The air jet 52 hassufficient velocity or force to effect dislodgement of the ejectedcapsule as the-conveyor moves past the airstream of jet 52. A suitablecollector not shown, receives the ejected capsules.

Upon ejection of the capsules from between the fingers 59, 511, thefingers are retracted to their inoperative position. By rotating thefingers 50, SI by a suitably turret action driven in synchronizationwith the turret sprocket 29, and by controlling the reciprocationthereof by suitable cam means, reas sembly and ejection of the capsulewithin and from the capsule holder means 32 and 39 is effected as theconveyor 29 is continuously moving.

As the conveyor rounds the turret sprocket 29, it is brought intomeshing relationship with the main driving sprocket 30.

If desired a reaming or purge station PS may be included in the cycle.The purge or reaming station includes a reaming turret sprocket 31operatively associated with a reaming turret (not shown). As theconveyor approaches the reaming turret sprocket 311, the associated camtrack 43 is shaped to again pivot the cap holder means 39 out ofalignment relative to its corresponding sleeve pin 32. Associated withthe reaming turret sprocket and arranged to rotate in synchronizationtherewith is a reaming turret with associated reaming fingers 5 2 whichare reciprocated to ream the capsule holder or sleeve 32 of anydefective or damaged capsule retained therein. A similar ream action maybe performed on the cap holder means 39.

As the conveyor rounds the reaming turret sprockets, the cam track isagain shaped to gradually pivot the succeeding cap holder means 39riding therein into alignment with its corresponding sleeve pin 32whereby the cycle of operation is repeated.

The conveyor means 20 herein described and the respective complementarycapsule holding means 32 and 39 carried thereby greatly simplifies acapsule filling apparatus 21 in that a single conveyor means is affordedin which separation and reassembly of the respective capsule portions22A, 228 can be readily effected merely by providing a complementary camtrack for pivoting the cap holder means 39 relative to its correspondingsleeve pin or body holder 32 in a predetermined sequence which isprogrammed by the shape of the cam groove 338.

While the movement of the cap holder 39 has been effected by a specificcam track having an endless cam groove 43B formed therein, it will beunderstood that other activating means may be provided for effecting thepositioning of the cap holder 39 relative to its associated sleeve pinor body holder means 32. If desired the cap holder may be provided withfriction lock means for maintaining the same in either the aligned ormisaligned position, with segmented cams or other suitable activatorsfor effecting the pivoting of the cap holder relative to its associatedbody holder means 32. Also instead of a chain link construction, theconveyor may comprise any suitable timing belt with the capsule holdingmeans 32 and 39 suitably supported or mounted to one side thereof.

While the invention has been described with respect to a particularembodiment thereof, it will be readily understood and appreciated thatvariations and modifications may be made without departing from thespirit or scope of the invention.

What is claimed is:

ll. A capsule handling apparatus for conveying a capsule having a bodyportion and a complementary cap portion through a series of operatingstations and comprising:

a flexible conveyor means,

means for guiding said conveyor means along a predetermined path,

a plurality of capsule receiving means spaced along said conveyor means,

each of said capsule receiving means including a plurality of firstportions connected in spaced relationship along said conveyor means,

and a plurality of corresponding complementary second portions pivotallyconnected to said conveyor means whereby each second portion is renderedmovable relative to its corresponding first portion,

and means for pivoting said complementary second portion into and out ofalignment with its respective corresponding first portion in apredetermined sequence,

said conveyor means comprising a chain conveyor formed of a plurality ofconnected links,

and

a sleeve pin pivotally connecting the adjacent ends of succeeding links,I said pin defining said first portion of said capsule receiving means.

2. The invention as defined in claim 1 and including an arm pivotallyconnected about each of said pins,

said arm having an end portion adapted to-overlie the next adjacentsleeve pin,

a bushing carrier on the end portion of said arm,

I said bushing defining the second portion of said capsule receivingmeans. 3. A capsule handling apparatus for conveying a capsule having abody portion and a complementary cap portion through a series ofoperating stations and comprising:

a single, unitary, flexible, endless conveyor means,

means for effecting the drive of said endless conveyor means along apredetermined path,

a plurality of capsule receiving means, said capsule receiving meansincluding means defining a first portion spaced along the length of saidconveyor means to define a carrier for carrying the body portion of acapsule through said predetermined v path,

and means defining a second portion, said second portion including 7 aseries of arms connected in seriatim along the length of said conveyormeans,

each of said arms having one end pivotally connected to said conveyormeans at spaced intervals therealong and having its other end free formoving laterally relative to said conveyor means for swinging into andout of vertical alignment and misalignment with said flexible endlessconveyor,

means formed in said free end of each arm defining a carrier for the capportion of said capsules,

said arms swinging in a plane parallel to the plane of the conveyormeans so that the axis of the cap portion and body portion of thecapsule are maintained normal to the swinging plane of said arms wherebythe cap portion carried in the cap can'ier in the free end of the armsis moved into and out of vertical alignment with the capsule bodyportion carried in the body carrying means spaced along said conveyormeans,

and cam means for successively engaging the free end of each of saidarms for guiding said free end of said arms into and out of verticalalignment with said conveyor means as said conveyor means is moved alongsaid path in a predetermined sequence.

4. The invention as defined in claim 3 and including means for effectingseparation of said capsule portions adapted to be received in saidaligned capsule receiving portions.

5. The invention as defined in claim 3 wherein said second capsulereceiving portion includes means for supporting a capsule therein.

6. The invention as defined in claim 4 and including means disposeddownstreamwise from said separating means to effect reassembly of saidseparated capsule portions.

7. The invention as defined in claim 6 and including means disposedbetween said separating means and said reassembly means for positioninga material in the body portion of said separated capsule.

8. The invention as defined in claim 4 wherein said separating meanscomprises:

a vacuum chamber adapted to be connected in communication with saidfirst capsule receiving means,

and means for subjecting said chamber to a negative pressure forseparating the capsule positioned in said capsule receiving means.

9. In a capsule filling machine, the improvement of a means forconveying a capsule having a cap portion and a complementary bodyportion through the various operating stations including at least acapsule receiving station and capsule filling station comprising:

a flexible conveyor means,

said conveyor means including an endless chain conveyor,

means for guiding said conveyor means in a predetennined path throughthe respective operating stations, complementary capsule receiving meanscarried on said conveyor means,

said complementary capsule receiving means including a first portion anda second portion, said first and second portions being connected forrelative movement with respect to one another,

means for effecting alignment of said first and second portions as saidconveyor means passes through a capsule receiving station, 7

means for effecting separation of said capsule adapted to be receivedwithin said aligned capsule receiving portions,

and means for effecting misalignment of said first and second capsulereceiving portions upon the separation of said capsule as said separatedcapsule is directed through the capsule filling station of said machinefor receiving a manufacture therein,

said chain conveyor including:

a plurality of connected links,

each link including a pair of spaced link plates,

each of said pair of link plates having aligned apertures,

a sleeve pin extended through said aligned openings for securing theadjacent ends of succeeding link plates,

and said sleeve pin defining a capsule receiving portion foraccommodating the body portion of the capsule. 10. The invention asdefined in claim 9 wherein said second capsule receiving portioncomprises an arm pivotally connected to each of said sleeve pins,

a bushing carried on the free end of said arm for movement intoalignment and misalignment with said sleeve pin,

said bushing being defined with an inturned shoulder adjacent one endthereof for retaining the cap portion of the capsule therein.

11. The invention as defined in claim 10 wherein said shoulder definesan opening sized to permit the body portion of the capsule to passtherethrough in the aligned position of said capsule receiving portion.

12. The invention as defined in claim 9 wherein the sleeve pins of saidchain is defined with a recess for accommodating the body portion of thecapsule,

said recess being slightly longer than the length of the body portion ofsaid capsule.

13. The invention as defined in claim 12 including means defining anopening in communication with said recess.

14. The invention as defined in claim 13 wherein said means foreffecting separation of said capsule within said capsule receiving meanscomprises a vacuum chamber positioned adjacent to said capsule receivingstation, said vacuum chamber being adapted to be connected incommunication with the opening to said recess of said sleeve pin.

15. Conveyor means for effecting the conveyance and separation ofconnected caps and body portions for a capsule comprising:

an endless chain conveyor including a plurality of chain links, andsleeve pins pivotally connecting the adjacent ends of successive links,

said chain conveyor having a plurality of capsule receiving means,

said capsule receiving means including said sleeve pins adapted toreceive the body portion of a capsule and a complementary cap holder forretaining the cap portion of the capsule,

means for pivotally connecting said cap holder to said chain conveyorfor movement relative to an adjacent sleeve pin, means for guiding saidchain conveyor along a'predetermined path,

means for pivoting said cap holder relative to said chain conveyor assaid chain conveyor is guided along said path whereby said cap holder ismoved into and out of alignment relative to its complementary sleeve pinin a predetermined sequence.

16. The invention as defined in claim and including separating meansoperatively associated with said capsule receiving means for separatingthe body portion of a capsule received therein from the cap portionthereof.

17. The invention as defined in claim 15 wherein said cap holder andcomplementary body holder each have a bore therein for receiving thecapsule, in the aligned position thereof,

said cap holder having an internal shoulder defining an opening sized toretain the cap portion therein while permitting the body portion of thecapsule to pass therethrough, and said body holder being sized toaccommodate and carry the body portion upon separation thereof from thecap.

18. The invention as defined in claim 16 wherein said separating meansinclude a vacuum means disposed in the path of travel of said conveyors,

said body holder having an opening therein adapted to be brought intocommunication with said vacuum means as said conveyors pass thereoversaid vacuum means.

19. In a capsule filling machine having a capsule feed station and acapsule filling station, the improvement of means for successivelyconveying and handling a capsule having a cap portion and a body portioncomprising:

an endless conveyor means, I

a complementary capsule receiving means carried on said conveyor meansfor accommodating said cap portion and body portion respectively,

means for guiding said conveyor means along a predetermined path wherebythe complementary capsule receiving means are disposed in alignment inpassing through said capsule feeding station for receiving a capsule,means for effecting separation of said capsule portions within saidcomplementary capsule receiving means as said capsule receiving means isdirected through said cap sule feed station, means for effectingmisalignment of said complementary capsule receiving means uponseparation of said capsule to expose the body portion of the capsule offilling, I

means for bringing the respective complementary capsule receiving meansinto alignment subsequent to the filling of the body portion of thecapsule in passing through said filling station,

means for effecting assembly of the filled body portion of the capsuleto the cap portion thereof,

and means for effecting the ejection of said filled and assembledcapsule from said capsule receiving means,

wherein said endless conveyor means comprises a chain having a pluralityof links and sleeve pins pivotally interconnecting the adjacent links,

said complementary capsule receiving means including said sleeve pinsadapted to receive and support the body portion of a capsule, and an armpivotally connected to said sleeve pins,

and means carried on said am to define a complementary capsule receivingmeans adapted to receive the cap portion of a capsule.

20. The invention as defined in claim 19 wherein said sleeve pins have abore extending therethrough, and means for retaining the body portion ofthe capsule therein.

21. In a capsule filling machine the improvement of a flexible endlessconveyor means,

means for guiding said endless conveyor in an endless path,complementary capsule receiving portions carried on said conveyor means,one of said complementary capsule receiving portions being movablerelative to the others, and means operating as one of said capsulereceiving means for effecting relative movement thereof for bringingsaid complementary capsule receiving portion into superposed alignedrelationship through a predetermined portion of the respective travelthereof and into misaligned relationship through another portion of saidtravel, wherein said conveyor means include a flexible chain comprisingof a plurality of connected links, one of said complementary capsulereceiving portions defining the pivotable connection between adjacentlinks whereby the distance between centers of adjacent link connectionsdefine the pitch of said chains, and the other of said capsule receivingportions being pivotally connected tosaid chain for movement into andout of alignment with said first mentioned capsule receiving portion.

1. A capsule handling apparatus for conveying a capsule having a bodyportion and a complementary cap portion through a series of operatingstations and comprising: a flexible conveyor means, means for guidingsaid conveyor means along a predetermined path, a plurality of capsulereceiving means spaced along said conveyor means, each of said capsulereceiving means including a plurality of first portions connected inspaced relationship along said conveyor means, and a plurality ofcorresponding complementary second portions pivotally connected to saidconveyor means whereby each second portion is rendered movable relativeto its corresponding first portion, and means for pivoting saidcomplementary second portion into and out of alignment with itsrespective corresponding first portion in a predetermined sequence, saidconveyor means comprising a chain conveyor formed of a plurality ofconnected links, and a sleeve pin pivotally connecting the adjacent endsof succeeding links, said pin defining said first portion of saidcapsule receiving means.
 2. The invention as defined in claim 1 andincluding an arm pivotally connected about each of said pins, said armhaving an end portion adapted to overlie the next adjacent sleeve pin, abushing carrier on the end portion of said arm, said bushing definingthe second portion of said capsule receiving means.
 3. A capsulehandling apparatus for conveying a capsule having a body portion and acomplementary cap portion through a series of operating stations andcomprising: a single, unitary, flexible, endless conveyor means, meansfor effecting the drive of said endless conveyor means along apredetermined path, a plurality of capsule receiving means, said capsulereceiving means including means defining a first portion spaced alongthe length of said conveyor means to define a carrier for carrying thebody portion of a capsule through said predetermined path, and meansdefining a second portion, said second portion including a series ofarms connected in seriatim along the length of said conveyor means, eachof said arms having one end pivotally connected to said conveyor meansat spaced intervals therealong and having its other end free for movinglaterally relative to said conveyor means for swinging into and out ofvertical alignment and misalignment with said flexible endless conveyor,means formed in said free end of each arm defining a carrier for the capportion of said capsules, said arms swinging in a plane parallel to theplane of the conveyor means so that the axis of the cap portion and bodyportion of the capsule are maintained normal to the swinging plane ofsaid arms whereby the cap portion carried in the cap carrier in the freeend of the arms is moved into and out of vertical alignment with thecapsule body porTion carried in the body carrying means spaced alongsaid conveyor means, and cam means for successively engaging the freeend of each of said arms for guiding said free end of said arms into andout of vertical alignment with said conveyor means as said conveyormeans is moved along said path in a predetermined sequence.
 4. Theinvention as defined in claim 3 and including means for effectingseparation of said capsule portions adapted to be received in saidaligned capsule receiving portions.
 5. The invention as defined in claim3 wherein said second capsule receiving portion includes means forsupporting a capsule therein.
 6. The invention as defined in claim 4 andincluding means disposed downstreamwise from said separating means toeffect reassembly of said separated capsule portions.
 7. The inventionas defined in claim 6 and including means disposed between saidseparating means and said reassembly means for positioning a material inthe body portion of said separated capsule.
 8. The invention as definedin claim 4 wherein said separating means comprises: a vacuum chamberadapted to be connected in communication with said first capsulereceiving means, and means for subjecting said chamber to a negativepressure for separating the capsule positioned in said capsule receivingmeans.
 9. In a capsule filling machine, the improvement of a means forconveying a capsule having a cap portion and a complementary bodyportion through the various operating stations including at least acapsule receiving station and capsule filling station comprising: aflexible conveyor means, said conveyor means including an endless chainconveyor, means for guiding said conveyor means in a predetermined paththrough the respective operating stations, complementary capsulereceiving means carried on said conveyor means, said complementarycapsule receiving means including a first portion and a second portion,said first and second portions being connected for relative movementwith respect to one another, means for effecting alignment of said firstand second portions as said conveyor means passes through a capsulereceiving station, means for effecting separation of said capsuleadapted to be received within said aligned capsule receiving portions,and means for effecting misalignment of said first and second capsulereceiving portions upon the separation of said capsule as said separatedcapsule is directed through the capsule filling station of said machinefor receiving a manufacture therein, said chain conveyor including: aplurality of connected links, each link including a pair of spaced linkplates, each of said pair of link plates having aligned apertures, asleeve pin extended through said aligned openings for securing theadjacent ends of succeeding link plates, and said sleeve pin defining acapsule receiving portion for accommodating the body portion of thecapsule.
 10. The invention as defined in claim 9 wherein said secondcapsule receiving portion comprises an arm pivotally connected to eachof said sleeve pins, a bushing carried on the free end of said arm formovement into alignment and misalignment with said sleeve pin, saidbushing being defined with an inturned shoulder adjacent one end thereoffor retaining the cap portion of the capsule therein.
 11. The inventionas defined in claim 10 wherein said shoulder defines an opening sized topermit the body portion of the capsule to pass therethrough in thealigned position of said capsule receiving portion.
 12. The invention asdefined in claim 9 wherein the sleeve pins of said chain is defined witha recess for accommodating the body portion of the capsule, said recessbeing slightly longer than the length of the body portion of saidcapsule.
 13. The invention as defined in claim 12 including meansdefining an opening in communication with said recess.
 14. The inventionas defined in claim 13 wherein said means for effecting separation ofsaid capsule within said capsule receiving means comprises a vacuumchamber positioned adjacent to said capsule receiving station, saidvacuum chamber being adapted to be connected in communication with theopening to said recess of said sleeve pin.
 15. Conveyor means foreffecting the conveyance and separation of connected caps and bodyportions for a capsule comprising: an endless chain conveyor including aplurality of chain links, and sleeve pins pivotally connecting theadjacent ends of successive links, said chain conveyor having aplurality of capsule receiving means, said capsule receiving meansincluding said sleeve pins adapted to receive the body portion of acapsule and a complementary cap holder for retaining the cap portion ofthe capsule, means for pivotally connecting said cap holder to saidchain conveyor for movement relative to an adjacent sleeve pin, meansfor guiding said chain conveyor along a predetermined path, means forpivoting said cap holder relative to said chain conveyor as said chainconveyor is guided along said path whereby said cap holder is moved intoand out of alignment relative to its complementary sleeve pin in apredetermined sequence.
 16. The invention as defined in claim 15 andincluding separating means operatively associated with said capsulereceiving means for separating the body portion of a capsule receivedtherein from the cap portion thereof.
 17. The invention as defined inclaim 15 wherein said cap holder and complementary body holder each havea bore therein for receiving the capsule, in the aligned positionthereof, said cap holder having an internal shoulder defining an openingsized to retain the cap portion therein while permitting the bodyportion of the capsule to pass therethrough, and said body holder beingsized to accommodate and carry the body portion upon separation thereoffrom the cap.
 18. The invention as defined in claim 16 wherein saidseparating means include a vacuum means disposed in the path of travelof said conveyors, said body holder having an opening therein adapted tobe brought into communication with said vacuum means as said conveyorspass thereover said vacuum means.
 19. In a capsule filling machinehaving a capsule feed station and a capsule filling station, theimprovement of means for successively conveying and handling a capsulehaving a cap portion and a body portion comprising: an endless conveyormeans, a complementary capsule receiving means carried on said conveyormeans for accommodating said cap portion and body portion respectively,means for guiding said conveyor means along a predetermined path wherebythe complementary capsule receiving means are disposed in alignment inpassing through said capsule feeding station for receiving a capsule,means for effecting separation of said capsule portions within saidcomplementary capsule receiving means as said capsule receiving means isdirected through said capsule feed station, means for effectingmisalignment of said complementary capsule receiving means uponseparation of said capsule to expose the body portion of the capsule offilling, means for bringing the respective complementary capsulereceiving means into alignment subsequent to the filling of the bodyportion of the capsule in passing through said filling station, meansfor effecting assembly of the filled body portion of the capsule to thecap portion thereof, and means for effecting the ejection of said filledand assembled capsule from said capsule receiving means, wherein saidendless conveyor means comprises a chain having a plurality of links andsleeve pins pivotally interconnecting the adjacent links, saidcomplementary capsule receiving means including said sleeve pins adaptedto receive and support the body portion of a capsule, and an armpivotally connected to said sleeve pins, and means carriEd on said armto define a complementary capsule receiving means adapted to receive thecap portion of a capsule.
 20. The invention as defined in claim 19wherein said sleeve pins have a bore extending therethrough, and meansfor retaining the body portion of the capsule therein.
 21. In a capsulefilling machine the improvement of a flexible endless conveyor means,means for guiding said endless conveyor in an endless path,complementary capsule receiving portions carried on said conveyor means,one of said complementary capsule receiving portions being movablerelative to the others, and means operating as one of said capsulereceiving means for effecting relative movement thereof for bringingsaid complementary capsule receiving portion into superposed alignedrelationship through a predetermined portion of the respective travelthereof and into misaligned relationship through another portion of saidtravel, wherein said conveyor means include a flexible chain comprisingof a plurality of connected links, one of said complementary capsulereceiving portions defining the pivotable connection between adjacentlinks whereby the distance between centers of adjacent link connectionsdefine the pitch of said chains, and the other of said capsule receivingportions being pivotally connected to said chain for movement into andout of alignment with said first mentioned capsule receiving portion.